Up First from NPR

President Trump's tariffs are set to increase prices on grocery staples like bacon and seafood, leaving consumers concerned. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are pushing for a spending bill that aims to cement Trump's policies. The excitement isn't just in politics; a hockey legend recently matched a long-standing goal record, while the college basketball finals are heating up. The blend of serious discussions with light-hearted sports insights keeps the conversation lively and engaging.

Alina Seljuk, NPR's business correspondent, shares insights on how steep new tariffs are hitting small business owners hard, creating a whirlwind of uncertainty. She discusses personal stories of entrepreneurs grappling with rising costs and the ripple effects on the overall economy. The conversation also touches on the controversial firings within the National Security Council, linked to far-right influences, raising questions about political stability and decision-making amid current tensions.

President Trump's new tariffs on foreign goods have sparked confusion and concern from global leaders, who fear retaliation and economic fallout. The potential boost to American manufacturing is weighed against negative impacts on exports. Meanwhile, TikTok faces a critical deadline to find a new owner, as national security concerns loom over its Chinese ownership. The complexities of the sale, including data privacy issues, add to the intrigue surrounding the platform's future and its role in U.S.-China relations.

President Trump is preparing to unveil sweeping tariffs, sparking debates on their economic implications for American consumers and businesses. In Wisconsin, a liberal judge's election to the state Supreme Court hints at shifting political dynamics. Additionally, the podcast discusses a controversial case where a Maryland father was mistakenly deported, raising critical questions about immigration policies and judicial authority. The interplay of these issues paints a vivid picture of the current political landscape.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court election becomes the most expensive judicial race in U.S. history, raising questions about money's influence in politics. In Florida, special elections heat up as Democrats aim to flip Republican-held seats, facing Trump’s significant endorsements. Meanwhile, investors are on edge as new tariffs loom, threatening various industries and stirring market turmoil. This lively discussion brings an insightful analysis of these critical political dynamics and their broad implications.

Speculation intensifies as President Trump hints at the possibility of a third term, stirring constitutional debates. An executive order seeks to reshape historical narratives at the Smithsonian, stirring controversy over ideological influences. Meanwhile, the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Myanmar poses an urgent humanitarian crisis, with rescue efforts complicated by political turmoil. The intersection of politics and history captures attention amid rising casualties and rescue operations.

What do Moo Deng the pygmy hippo, social media sensation Hawk Tuah, and the President of the United States all have in common? They've all inspired highly valuable, highly volatile memecoins. The memecoin began as a sort of joke cryptocurrency, but it soon became very real.On today's episode of The Sunday Story, we turn to our friends at NPR's Planet Money to help us understand the phenomenon of memecoins. What are they, and how did they go from a one-off joke to a speculative frenzy worth tens of billions of dollars? Who are the winners and losers in this brazen new market?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A devastating earthquake in Myanmar has left over 1,000 dead and prompted a plea for international aid amid challenging rescue efforts. The discussion shifts to new tariffs that are set to hit American consumers, unpacking who really pays the price. Finally, the impact of recent executive orders on arts and culture is revealed, spotlighting tensions over funding and inclusivity, particularly affecting institutions like the Smithsonian. These topics connect the threads of natural disaster, economic policy, and cultural change.

The podcast dives into the controversial arrest of a Tufts University student by ICE, sparking protests and debates on free speech. It discusses the Trump administration's drastic plan to cut thousands of jobs in health services, raising concerns about public health. The withdrawal of Elise Stefanik's UN nomination highlights the delicate balance within GOP politics. Lastly, it examines how U.S. tariffs are reshaping trade dynamics with China, affecting prices and competition in unexpected ways.

National security breaches take center stage as a leaked chat reveals critical discussions about airstrikes in Yemen, raising questions on accountability. The implications of Trump's hefty 25% tariff on car imports stir debate, with concerns over consumer prices and market stability. Meanwhile, the Department of Government Efficiency faces legal challenges over privacy, spotlighting the continuous tug-of-war between data access and security. A dynamic mix of political discourse and economic analysis keeps listeners hooked!